Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Name: Pumpkin Spice Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp baking powder; 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 1-2 tbsp milk (for glaze)

Get ready to embrace the flavors of fall with these delightful pumpkin spice cookies! Soft, chewy, and topped with a sweet glaze, these cookies are the perfect treat for any autumn day. With spices that remind you of pumpkin pie and the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, these cookies will quickly become a seasonal favorite. Join me in creating a batch that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth!

Ingredients

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
– ½ tsp salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
– 1-2 tbsp milk (for glaze)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 12-15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 120 calories, 4g fat, 20g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 10g sugar. This is based on one cookie size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
9. For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth.
10. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can substitute it with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk for the glaze.

Serving and Pairings

These pumpkin spice cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea or coffee. They also make a delightful addition to fall-themed dessert platters or as a sweet treat during holiday gatherings.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature and enjoy! Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
Not measuring flour accurately can affect the texture.
Baking cookies on a hot baking sheet can cause them to spread too much.
Using stale spices will diminish flavor.
Skipping the cooling step can make the glaze melt off.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.
Experiment with different glazes, like maple or caramel.
Use fresh pumpkin puree for a richer flavor.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for these cookies?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and saves time. Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.

What can I do with leftover pumpkin puree?

Leftover pumpkin puree can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, or used in soups for extra flavor.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Just scoop it onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.

Conclusion

Pumpkin spice cookies are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With their soft texture and warm spices, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether enjoyed with a warm drink or shared with loved ones, these cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the season.